Students help effort to build cafe in Kresge Library

By Amanda Benjamin, student writer

Oakland University’s Student Congress has made a $10,000 grant to help build a café in Kresge Library. The funding will be used to support renovations in the current lounge, located near the building’s entrance.

The new café will consist of premier snack and beverage vending machines, lounge seating and work tables.

“It makes a more home-like atmosphere,” said Student Body President Daniel Evola. He noted that having vending machines instead of staff will mean the café can remain accessible to students whenever the library is open.

“It will be a wonderful addition to the library,” said Julie Voelck, dean of Kresge Library. “It will be much more convenient for students.”

The café will be designed to provide an ideal environment for students to study individually or work on group projects, giving them access to everything they’ll need, Voelck added.

“The students voted for this unanimously,” Voelck said, describing the Student Congress’ action. Evola noted that after representatives from the library asked for support from the body, members were able to help inspire other organizations to lend support.

According to Evola, it is hoped the café can be completed within a year. An additional $75,000 in funding is needed before the renovations can take place, however.

Those interested in helping students support the café are encouraged to contact Alysa Hunton, development officer for Kresge Library, at hunton@oakland.edu or (248) 364-6106.